Thanks to all the creatures who joined us…

Dogs and cats — and even a rabbit, hampster and Russian tortoise — descended on Ivy Chapel in record numbers on Sept. 12th for the Blessing of the Animals.

This was Ivy’s ninth year for the Blessing of the Animals, and it was the busiest yet. It was also the ninth straight year we have been fortunate to have perfect weather.

This year, we were proud to accept donations for C.H.A.M.P. assistance dogs. Donations will ensure C.H.A.M.P. will be able to continue providing service dogs free of charge to adults and children with disabilities.

Thank you to everyone who shared their pets with us… and see you next year!

Here’s a short video of Moose the Russian tortoise, who stopped by to be blessed and to sample Ivy’s turf…

Click on the photo below to view our photo album from the 2009 Blessing of the Animals at Ivy Chapel. If you would like hi-res versions of any of these photos, please e-mail the Ivy Chapel webmaster.

Food, Folks and Fun at Annual Picnic

Ivy’s Annual Church Picnic was held on Sunday, June 7. It was a huge success… good friends, good food (as always) and fun for folks of all ages. We were doubly lucky, as the rain threatened but held off until the party was over… and everything was cleaned up!

It wasn’t all about food this year, as everyone could get their faces painted, play a little Bingo “Ivy Style” and take a shot in the Free-Throw tournament. There was a cake walk… a sno-cone station… and, of course, hamburgers and hotdogs (and tons of delicious sides).

Thanks to all of the committees who teamed up and made this such a fun event for everyone.

Check out the Photos section of the website for more pictures from the event.

40th Annual Lafayette Square Spring House and Garden Tour

Come on down for the 40th Annual Lafayette Square Spring House and Garden Tour: “Ruby Jubilee” on Saturday, June 6 at 10 am.

This year’s Lafayette Square House and Garden Tour will feature the Square’s own “architectural jewels” – elaborately restored Victorian era mansions, brand new remarkable replications of Italianate town homes, and examples of historic restorations that are underway.  Tickets are $15 in advance and $18 on tour weekend.  Group Sales of 20 or more are $12. More information is on the bulletin board in fellowship hall.  After the tour, we will have lunch at Sqwires in Lafayette Square. Early registration is closed, but you can still take the tour! For information, contact Debbie Washburn.